Many moons ago I worked counselling people who had committed violent offences, as well as researching the impact that this type of work had on other professionals.  Most professionals that I interviewed talked about being drawn to the work, as it was challenging both personally & professionally, things like learning new professional skills, challenging personal beliefs about offenders and being rewarding work both personally and in terms of public protection. Whilst being drawn towards a challenging client group these professionals also acknowledged that it was difficult work and that there were negative aspects to the work, such as hearing distressing material and dealing with clients who were hostile towards professionals at times. Self-care was an important feature for the workers so that they could remain focussed on the positive aspects of the job and buffer the negative aspects. But who’s got time for self-care when they work in a busy, stressful job?

  • Suppose you were to come upon a man in the woods working feverishly to saw down a tree. “What are you doing?” you ask. “Can’t you see?” comes the impatient reply. “I’m sawing down this tree.” You exclaim: “You look exhausted! How long have you been at it?” The man replies: “Over five hours and I’m beat! This is hard work.” You enquire: Well, why don’t you take a break for a few minutes and sharpen that saw? I’m sure it would go a lot faster.” The man emphatically replies: “ I don’t have time to sharpen the saw. I’m too busy sawing!” The Paradox of Self-Care (Norcross & Guy)


Whilst I no longer work in forensic settings I have continued to support professionals with their mental health and wellbeing and come across this problem often. People have no problem helping others but frequently don’t make time to look after themselves, as they’re too busy! Unfortunately this can lead to burnout and further negative impact on mental wellbeing. So what can we do?

Job satisfaction is thought to play a positive role within the stress process. Medcof and Hausdorf suggested that job satisfaction might best be conceptualised in terms of the extent to which a particular job is able to satisfy the needs of an individual for achievement. Career satisfaction is contingent on success in both reducing fears of professional failures and enhancing hope for professional success.

  • Consider the rewards of your work? Is there enough job satisfaction to buffer any negative aspects?
  • Think about what you need to take good care of yourself – someone to talk to? A hobby or sport to immerse yourself in?
  • Make a plan for self care. Think about forthcoming stressful events or times of year when you need to take extra care.

 

  • And remember… even if you’re busy, self-care is time well spent!